Pacaltsdorp and MM Mateza Primary Schools tops in George Spelling Bee

SCHOOL NEWS - Pacaltsdorp Primary School and MM Mateza Primary School emerged as top performers at George Municipality’s annual branch libraries’ Spelling Bee competition held at Conville Library.

It was a true celebration of literacy and multilingualism. Eight primary schools took part in the competition during September, with learners competing in Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa - the three official languages of the Western Cape.

The winners in each language category will represent George Municipality at an inter-municipality spelling bee competition in Oudtshoorn.

Pacaltsdorp Primary School claimed the winning school titles in both Afrikaans and English, while MM Mateza Primary School took top honours in isiXhosa.

The participating schools were Pacaltsdorp, New Dawn Park, Heidedal, St Paul’s, MM Mateza, Thembalethu, Tyolora and Kretzenshoop primary schools.

The winners are:

AFRIKAANS

1st Place: Caydee-Leigh Cherry – Pacaltsdorp Primary School

2nd Place: Lawrendo Muller – Pacaltsdorp Primary School

3rd Place: Kaylen Bruinders – St Paul’s Primary School

Winning School: Pacaltsdorp Primary School

ENGLISH

1st Place: Ferguson Van Wyk – Pacaltsdorp Primary School

2nd Place: Si Yan Di – St Paul’s Primary School

3rd Place: Uthandolwethi Dingawayo – Thembalethu Primary School

Winning School: Pacaltsdorp Primary School

ISIXHOSA

1st Place: Gwaza Samkelo – M.M. Mateza Primary School

2nd Place: Matewu Okuhle – M.M. Mateza Primary School

3rd Place: Asante Ganto – Thembalethu Primary School

Winning School: MM Mateza Primary School

All nine winners, three per language: The top nine participants across the Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa categories display their trophies and medals. Photo: Supplied

Inclusive environment

According to Janetta Rhode of George Municipality’s Libraries, the initiative aims to create an inclusive environment where learners can develop language skills, build confidence and connect through a shared love of learning.

“The Spelling Bee emphasises inclusivity, innovation and community engagement to inspire learners from diverse backgrounds. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to excel and discover the joy of words,” said Rhode.

The competition also promotes vocabulary development, public speaking and critical thinking, while encouraging a lifelong passion for reading and language.

The initiative was launched at Conville Library in 2022, with only Conville Primary School participating. The initiative has grown over the years, with schools such as Heidedal Primary School, which were last year’s winners in both the Spelling Bee and Book Review competitions, and Rosemoor Primary School subsequently joining the programme.

Rhode said its growth over the years reflects the role libraries can play in promoting literacy and lifelong learning.

Schools, libraries and community organisations interested in joining the programme can contact their local library for more information.

Prizes were handed over by, from left: Wayne Windwaai of the Youth in Action Foundation, Dr Kosie Haarhoff, former acting director: Community Services and Franklin Lamini of the Western Cape Education Department’s Safe Schools Programme. Photo: Supplied